More than just ideas and institutions, religion in America is a rich
mixture of objects, behaviors and people. Working from 1995 through 2001,
the Material History of American Religion
Project studied the history of American religion in all its complexity by focusing on
material objects and economic themes. Working with religious leaders, it
helped
contemporary religious communities with their economic concerns by placing those concerns
within an historical context. Finally, the Project encouraged further investigations
into the religious lives of Americans by paying attention to material and economic
questions.

The project was based at the Divinity School at
Vanderbilt University and was supported by the Lilly Endowment,
Incorporated. The project's director was James
Hudnut-Beumler, the divinity school's dean; Daniel
Sack was associate director.

The project has concluded its work, but this web site will continue to
provide resources for scholars, teachers, and others interested in American
religion. See also the information on the project-sponsored
traveling exhibit, Picturing Faith.